Frustrated Locals Demand Action As Migrant Crisis Pushes Rhodes To ‘Breaking Point’

The Greek island of Rhodes is struggling under the weight of an ongoing migrant crisis that residents say has left their community on the brink. With more than 700 undocumented migrants overcrowding the island’s facilities, many locals are demanding government action, calling for urgent support to handle the overwhelming influx.

According to Manolis Androulakis, president of the South Dodecanese Police Officers Union, law enforcement has been stretched beyond capacity. “The situation is at a breaking point,” he stated, adding that inadequate resources have led to lengthy delays in transferring migrants from Rhodes to mainland Greece. Some transfers reportedly take up to 20 days, straining the local police force.

Rhodes Mayor Alexandros Koliadis raised similar concerns during a recent South Aegean Regional Council meeting, citing the lack of adequate staff within the police and port authorities. Daily migrant arrivals have further strained facilities, leaving residents to deal with overcrowding and the sight of makeshift camps across public spaces.

With limited access to proper sanitation and shelter, many migrants are forced to camp out in parks and sidewalks, creating an unsustainable situation for the community. Frustrated residents feel neglected by the government, with Androulakis stating, “It is not possible for us to shoulder the entire burden of immigration while others look on indifferently.”

Although plans were made to transfer 120 migrants to Piraeus this week, logistical challenges delayed the relocation, adding to residents’ frustrations. Locals are urging the government to take action and provide resources to relieve Rhodes of the excessive burden.

For many on Rhodes, the crisis has highlighted gaps in the nation’s immigration policy, leaving the island in need of immediate and substantial support.